Exodus 19:25
So Moses went down unto the people, and spake unto them.
Original Language Analysis
וַיֵּ֥רֶד
went down
H3381
וַיֵּ֥רֶד
went down
Strong's:
H3381
Word #:
1 of 6
to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau
הָעָ֑ם
unto the people
H5971
הָעָ֑ם
unto the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
4 of 6
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Historical Context
Moses' repeated ascents and descents of Sinai (at least seven times) physically demonstrated his mediatorial role. Ancient readers would appreciate the exhausting physical labor involved in these climbs, underscoring Moses' dedication.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Moses' immediate obedience to God's command model for spiritual leaders?
- How does Moses' physical labor (climbing up and down) illustrate the cost of mediation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
So Moses went down unto the people, and spake unto them.
Moses obeys immediately—no argument, no delay. 'Went down' (וַיֵּרֶד, vayered) and 'spoke' (וַיֹּאמֶר, vayomer) show prompt compliance. The verse's brevity emphasizes action over words—Moses is a doer, not merely a hearer. He descends to deliver God's warning before ascending again with Aaron. This constant up-down movement dramatizes mediation's exhausting work—standing between holy God and sinful people, bringing words down and prayers up. Moses' faithful transmission of warnings saves lives—obedience in leadership protects those led. The people's safety depends on Moses' fidelity. The verse bridges chapter 19's theophany to chapter 20's law—Moses prepares them to hear God's voice.